Have you been arrested for theft in the Middle Tennessee area? If so, the Law Office of James M. Marshall can provide the experience and aggressive defense that you need to avoid a conviction or to reduce your charges to a lesser offense. Shoplifting is the least of all theft crimes, but it can still affect your future career since employers will be much more hesitant to hire someone with a theft offense on their criminal record no matter how small. Consult with a Williamson County criminal defense attorney from our firm as soon as possible to learn more about your charges and to find out how we can fight in your defense.

Tennessee Code Annotated § 39.14-105 provides the different grading for theft. Shoplifting, retail theft, and petty theft are generally misdemeanors and are punishable by a fine of up to $2,500. Shoplifting is a misdemeanor as long as the total value of all property stolen is $500 or less. Shoplifting can escalate to a felony if the value of the property exceeds $500 or if the individual entered the shop with the intention of committing a theft crime inside. Burglary is defined as entering a building and committing a felony, theft, or assault crime inside and is a very serious felony. Our firm can ensure that you receive the smallest sentence possible for your case, or that your charges are dropped altogether.

The penalties that you face under charges of shoplifting vary depending on the value of the property that you allegedly stole. The penalties for theft are as follows:

$500 or less – Class A misdemeanor; fine of up to $2,500

At least $500 but less than $1,000 – Class E felony; maximum fine of $3,000; standard 1-2 years in prison

At least $1,000 but less than $10,000 – Class D felony; maximum fine of $5,000; standard 2-5 years in prison

At least $10,000 but less than $60,000 – Class C felony; maximum fine of $10,000; standard 3-6 years in prison

At least $60,000 but less than $250,000 – Class B felony; maximum fine of $25,000; standard 8-12 years in prison

$250,000 or more – Class A felony; maximum fine of $50,000; standard 15-25 years in prison

If you are facing charges of shoplifting in the Middle Tennessee area, the Law Office of James M. Marshall has what it takes to defend you. We will thoroughly study your charges and arrest to determine whether or not there were adequate grounds to charge you with a theft crime in the first place. We will also work tirelessly to uncover evidence and obtain statements that can strengthen your defense. Our ultimate goal is to have your charges dropped or your cases dismissed, but even when that is not possible, we will at least fight to reduce your charges to a lesser felony, or from a felony to a misdemeanor. The sooner you retain a lawyer, the better your chances will be of a successful defense.

Have you been charged with Shoplifting? Call Tennessee Criminal Defense Attorney, James Marshall, today at (931) 446-6113!